Is Human-Elephant Conflict Rising in Jharkhand? Five Lives Lost and Two Elephants Dead!
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Synopsis
The escalating human-elephant conflict in Jharkhand has resulted in five fatalities in just a week, alongside the mysterious deaths of two elephants. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for protective measures and community support.
Key Takeaways
- Five fatalities reported due to elephant attacks in Jharkhand in one week.
- Two elephants found dead, raising concerns about wildlife safety.
- Urgent calls for compensation and protective measures from local communities.
- Increased human-elephant interaction demands immediate action.
- Investigations ongoing into the causes of elephant deaths.
Ranchi, Nov 17 (NationPress) The conflict between humans and elephants is reaching alarming levels in Jharkhand, as five individuals have tragically lost their lives to elephant attacks within the last week, alongside the mysterious deaths of two elephants.
In a recent incident, a group of approximately 15 elephants invaded Kharkanda village in the Jageshwar OP area of Bokaro district around 11 p.m. on Sunday, wreaking havoc for several hours.
The herd caused the death of 45-year-old Sanjho Devi and damaged around 25-30 houses. Additionally, a parked car and a tempo were also destroyed, and food supplies were consumed.
Distressed villagers recounted how the assault was so sudden and ferocious that many took refuge on rooftops to escape the chaos.
A team from the forest department arrived after being alerted, but by that time, the herd had already inflicted considerable destruction, amounting to thousands of rupees.
The villagers are now calling for urgent compensation and better protective measures.
Just a week earlier, two young men, Prakash Mahato and Charku Mahato, were also killed by a herd near the Tilaiya underground railway crossing in the same vicinity. Caught off guard in the forest's darkness, they had no chance to escape.
Another incident last Tuesday saw 43-year-old Nakul Oraon from Mahua Patra village in Chatra district fall victim to an elephant attack.
On Saturday night, Chhotan Munda, a 40-year-old farmer from Lurungi village under the Chanho police station in Ranchi district, was trampled while trying to drive away a wild elephant.
In response to these tragedies, enraged villagers blocked NH-75 on Sunday morning, demanding a government job and compensation for Munda’s family. The blockade was lifted after the Forest Department provided ₹25,000 as immediate assistance and promised further action.
Additionally, the recent discovery of two deceased female elephants—one of which was pregnant—in Juginanda Tola of West Singhbhum district on Friday has raised alarm within the Forest Department.
Villagers alerted authorities after a foul odor permeated the area.
According to Ranger Jitendra Prasad Singh, the cause of death remains uncertain, although it's believed the elephants passed away two to three days prior.
Tracks found in surrounding fields and forests indicate that a herd had recently traversed the area.
Postmortem examinations were conducted, and samples from the liver, kidneys, and other organs have been sent for forensic analysis.
Point of View
We recognize the ongoing struggle between wildlife and human populations. The recent surge in human-elephant conflicts in Jharkhand calls for immediate attention and action from authorities, not only to protect human lives but also to ensure the safety and preservation of the elephant population.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the rise in human-elephant conflict in Jharkhand?
The increase in human-elephant conflict in Jharkhand is attributed to habitat loss, encroachment on wildlife corridors, and the growing human population, leading to more frequent encounters between humans and elephants.
What measures can be taken to mitigate these conflicts?
To mitigate human-elephant conflicts, effective measures include creating wildlife corridors, increasing community awareness, providing compensation for damages, and implementing stronger protective measures for both elephants and local residents.
How can villagers protect themselves from elephant attacks?
Villagers can protect themselves by staying vigilant, avoiding known elephant pathways, and using deterrents such as noise-making devices. It is also crucial to maintain a clear communication line with local authorities.
What is being done to investigate the deaths of the elephants?
The Forest Department is conducting postmortem examinations and forensic analysis on the deceased elephants to determine the cause of death and whether any foul play was involved.
What support is available for families affected by elephant attacks?
Families affected by elephant attacks can seek compensation from local authorities. The government also provides support in the form of immediate financial assistance and potential job opportunities for victims' families.
